Device and method for the treatment of hollow anatomical structures

Abstract

A method of treating hollow anatomical structures, for example varicose veins. The method comprises: providing an elongate radiation applicator, the elongate applicator including an emitter, the emitter being coupled to a source of microwave radiation and being adapted to emit said radiation; introducing the applicator into a hollow anatomical structure, the hollow anatomical structure including a section of target tissue; traversing the applicator past the section of target tissue while said emitter emits microwave radiation of a predetermined intensity into said section. Techniques are used (markings on the coaxial cable in conjunction with an audible tone) so that the user makes the traversal at a predetermined rate so that uniform application of the radiation to the tissue, and effective occlusion, occurs. An applicator for performing the treatment is also disclosed.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.